Working from Home and How It Affects Your Insurance

What you need to know

Remote and hybrid roles have become part of everyday life. This shift has blurred the lines between living and working spaces, raising important questions about insurance.

At Grove & Dean, we’ve seen a rise in queries from clients wondering whether their home insurance still meets their needs. So, here’s our brief guide to what you need to know.

Home working and standard cover

If your work from home is purely clerical, for example, using a laptop, taking calls, or attending virtual meetings, your home contents insurance will typically cover your office equipment.

Many policies include generous limits for items such as computers, desks, and printers. If your equipment is owned by your employer, it’s normally covered under their business insurance rather than yours.

Hosting clients or running a client-focused business from home

If you regularly have clients visiting your property, or if your home is listed as your business address, you must inform your insurer. This applies to:

• Therapy or treatment rooms
• Hair and beauty services
• Tuition or tutoring
• Pet grooming or boarding
• Any commercial activity involving visitors, stock, or specialist tools

In these cases, your insurer may require you to take out additional cover, such as public liability insurance or a tailored business policy.

Using a garden office or outbuilding

Many of our clients now use sheds, summer houses or converted garages as home offices. These are typically covered under both buildings and contents insurance, but only if they are declared. If valuable equipment isstored in these spaces, make sure it’s included in your policy.

In some cases, high-value outbuildings may need to be listed specifically on your insurance documents.

More accidents, fewer burglaries?

Working from home can reduce your burglary risk. After all, someone is often in. However, the increased use of equipment and extended time at home can raise the chance of accidental damage or liability issues. If you’re concerned, consider additional accidental damage cover.

The importance of disclosure

Whatever your working arrangement, honesty is crucial. Failing to disclose changes in how you use your home, such as starting a business or increasing visitor numbers, could invalidate your insurance. It’s also important to review your policy regularly, especially if your working habits change.

Our recommendation

If you’re working from home, check your insurance policy.

For most people doing desk-based work, your current policy will suffice. But if your setup has changed, especially if you’re running a business or seeing clients, contact your insurer to make sure you’re properly covered.

As Chartered Insurance Brokers, Grove & Dean can guide you through every step of your insurance journey, ensuring you have the protection you need, whatever your work arrangements.